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Scott M. Thompson

After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in the classics from Brown University in Rhode Island, Scott M. Thompson returned to his roots in Rochester, Minn., to attend medical school in 2007.

Scott got intrigued by clinical and translational science after taking the Introduction to Clinical Research course during his first year of medical school. This led him to become one of the first scholars in the M.D.-M.S. Program, which is specifically for medical students. In 2010, he transferred to the M.D.-Ph.D. Program (Medical Scientist Training Program).

Scott says that earning a Ph.D. in clinical and translational science in addition to his medical degree will make him a better physician.

As he explains, "I see clinical and translational science as the intersection between research and the immediate needs of the patient. I want to integrate my future clinical and research practice by taking the problems and challenges I see facing my patients and asking, 'How can I better understand these issues and improve care for my patients?' "

The M.D.-Ph.D. Program, says Scott, is broadening his knowledge and providing the skills necessary to critically review clinical and translational research and to collaborate with both basic scientists and clinical researchers. He enjoys Mayo Clinic's "spirit of collaboration, accessibility of faculty and the incredible resources available to students."

Mentored research

A strong focus on mentoring is a key differentiator of the clinical and translational science training programs offered by the Mayo Clinic Center for Translational Science Activities. Scholars select their own mentors from among Mayo Clinic faculty. The mentor's role is to provide personalized guidance and support for the scholar's research project and career development.

Scott's formal program mentors are Matthew R. Callstrom, M.D., Ph.D., David A. Woodrum, M.D., Ph.D., and Joseph P. Grande, M.D., Ph.D., all of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Given the complexity of the questions he's pursuing, Scott was encouraged to expand his mentoring team to include multiple perspectives, so he's sought further mentorship from a unique group of Mayo faculty with expertise in basic science, clinical and translational research, and clinical practice.

"Each mentor fosters a spirit of inquiry and provides me with unique perspectives and expertise," says Scott. "At the same time, they challenge me to develop my confidence and skills as an independent researcher."